Compressed air systems are crucial for many industries, but air leaks can significantly impact your business’s efficiency and productivity. Without regular maintenance, air leaks can often go unnoticed which leads to unnecessary costs to your operational budget.
How Much Do Compressed Air Leaks Cost?
Unchecked leaks can waste up to 20% of a compressor’s output which is a significant source of wasted energy. We have found that it is common for sites to experience a leak rate of 20-30% in their compressed air system.
For instance, during a recent ultrasonic air leak detection at a customer site in Kwinana, Western Australia, we identified over 41 leaks. These leaks had a rate of over 751 litres per minute, costing the business over $6,946.11 annually. The performance and monetary costs of air leaks outweighs the cost of performing an ultrasonic air leak detection for your operations.
How to Find Compressed Air Leaks?
Detecting compressed air leaks is essential for maintaining system efficiency and reducing energy costs. There are three primary methods to detect compressed air leaks:
Listening: Listen for hissing sounds, which indicate leaks, whilst inspecting your compressed air system. While simple and cost-effective, this method is only effective for detecting larger leaks. It may be challenging to hear hissing in a noisy operational environment.
Liquid Leak Detector: Pressurise the system and spray an air leak detection fluid on all the joints. This results in a mass of bubbles that can be easily seen. However, this method takes longer to detect air leaks and requires full access to the pipe to spray and inspect.
Ultrasonic Leak Detection: This is the most accurate method for identifying leaks, especially in noisy operational environment. This equipment allows for precise detection and location of even the smallest leaks.
By employing these methods, you can ensure your compressed air system operates efficiently, saving energy and reducing costs.
How Does Ultrasonic Leak Detection Work?
Ultrasonic leak detectors work by using directional microphones, amplifiers, and audio filters to accurately pinpoint leaks. These detectors identify high-frequency hissing sounds associated with air leaks, allowing them to find leaks that can’t be heard. The process is straightforward: leaks create turbulence, producing a distinctive white noise. By focusing on ultrasonic elements and filtering out background noise, these detectors can locate leaks precisely and quickly.
Ultrasonic Leak Detection in Western Australia
In Western Australia, our ultrasonic leak detection service provides comprehensive reports detailing the exact location, volume loss, and annual cost of leaks in your compressed air system. By promptly addressing leaks, we aim to reduce wastage to less than 10% of your total compressed air production, thereby improving efficiency and reducing costs.
Don’t let compressed air leaks drain your profits. Contact us today to schedule your air leak detection audit and join our list of valued clients benefiting from proactive leak detection and repair. Let us help you optimise your compressed air system for enhanced performance and financial savings.
About Pneumatic Engineering
Pneumatic Engineering is a West Australian compressor sales and servicing company based in Welshpool with over 45 years of experience supplying compressed air solutions. Standing out in the industry for having the flexibility and expertise to source, fix and maintain any compressor equipment, Pneumatic Engineering is a proud member of The Crommelin Group.
